The UN Development Programme (UNDP) said the economic impact of the current Ebola outbreak would depend on how quickly it is brought under control. Using three scenarios, it estimated that if the outbreak remains limited to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, it could cost about $1 billion for the DRC’s GDP. In a worst-case scenario—where Ebola spreads to additional countries, including Rwanda and Angola—continental GDP could fall by as much as $3.6 billion, and up to 328,000 jobs could be lost.
The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is no tested vaccine or specific treatment. The UNDP cited government figures stating the outbreak has infected 1,307 people and killed 377 in the DRC since it was declared on May 15. Smaller numbers of cases have also been reported in Uganda, and health experts warn it could spread to other neighboring countries such as South Sudan.
The report also highlighted challenges that make containment harder, including insecurity and difficulties conducting safe burials in affected areas, where funeral practices can involve handling infected bodies.
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